In this article, we discuss the most critical element in an attraction marketing campaign. Personal branding, which many would “naturally” avoid is essential. This is, in fact where most people in network marketing, agent programs, and even employees make a crucial mistake.  It’s not about your ego, but you must become the leader that others will want to follow.  The key element in this strategy is creating and promoting the most important brand on the planet, which is absolutely critical to your success:  “You, Inc.”

There are quite a endless options to consider in personal branding.  You can start small and build from there.  Although this may seem to be, and is, about self promotion, there is nothing immoral, illegal, or fattening about personal branding.  Ask yourself the question “If I don’t do something to promote my own brand, who will?”  Does that make sense?  It is up to you and solely your responsibility.  And not only that, but realize that limiting your own achievement is detrimental not only to you, but to everyone who you could have helped if you had taken on this important task.  So while personal branding may seem self-centered on the surface, in reality it is about operating on a higher plane and enabling you to serve others at a higher level.

Maybe this strategy isn’t for everyone, but for those that want to engage fully in life and establish their brand, what are the essentials?  One obvious key is a fundamental belief in your own abilities and individual “worth.”  For most, this may seem strange to consider, but it is the key to branding.  Here are some ideas and tasks to take on as part of your own personal branding strategy:

• Create your own blog.  My personal blog is branded with my own name, JimGreen.us.  For most entrepreneurs, consultants, and even employees, this is the favored approach.  You should try to own your own domain name, preferably “dot” com.
• Facebook strategy.  Everyone should have their own personal Facebook page, although the personal page is more about relationships than “branding.”  In addition to personal pages, a “fan page” can be created to enhance your personal brand.
• Become an author.  You should seek out opportunities to contribute articles to local and even national publications and news outlets.  The only difference between you and someone in your profession who appears in the media is that they engaged and took action.  They don’t know any more than you do.  Become a celebrity, because you “choose” to take the high road and not for personal “glory.”
• Become active in your community and volunteer to speak to local groups in your area(s) of expertise.  Local Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions, etc. are continually in need of speakers for their weekly meetings and agendas.  Join groups with which you have an affinity and volunteer to take on leadership.

Establishing a personal brand just involves a little desire and the will to follow through.  If you choose to move in this direction, you will receive back more than you give.  As one of my mentors, Dr. Ivan Misner, teaches:  “Givers gain.”  Step up to this challenge, establish your own “brand” and begin contributing at a higher level, while simultaneously .